SSU graduate Hunter Bennington reflects on his time as a college athlete

Hunter Bennington, a native of Wheelersburg, Ohio, will be graduating from Shawnee State University this December with a bachelor’s degree in Health Science. A member of the SSU Men’s Cross Country and Track teams, Bennington has enjoyed his time as a student-athlete on campus.

“I had a very successful high school track career and got very serious about running,” said Bennington. “Coach Eric Putnam took interest in me and suggested I try out for Shawnee State’s team. After my senior year, I knew I wanted to run and be close to my family and my home, so I chose Shawnee State.”

Majoring in Health Science, Bennington plans to apply his degree after graduation towards a career with the United States Navy as an officer studying nuclear medicine.

“I have always known I wanted to serve my patriotic duty by joining the Navy,” he said. “My grandpa was in the Air Force during the Vietnam War, and I have always looked up to and respected him. The Navy aligns with my goal to work in a nuclear plant, and Shawnee was the perfect school for me to get a step closer to this goal.”

Outside of the athletic department and his academic program, Bennington worked for several years as a student employee for the Planning, Construction & Facilities Department on campus.

“Working on campus has given me a greater appreciation of my school,” he said. “Being able to watch people enjoy the beauty of the campus is so fulfilling. I take great pride in keeping campus clean and maintained. Shawnee State University has the most relaxing and beautiful campus.”

Running all four years at SSU, Bennington has had a very successful athletic career on campus gaining multiple recognitions in the Mid-South Conference including Runner of the Year and First Team All-Conference. Looking back on his time on the team, he is appreciative of the skills he’s gained by being a student-athlete.

“I truly appreciate Coach Putnam seeing my potential,” he said. “Being on a team has given me skills that will help me in the Navy. I have loved every minute of my career at Shawnee.”